Apple’s iOS 18: A Victory for Accessibility Advocates with the Option to Disable Blinking Cursor
In a landmark move towards enhancing accessibility, Apple has introduced an option in its latest iOS 18 update that allows users to disable the blinking cursor caret. This feature is particularly significant for individuals experiencing misokinesia and other vestibular issues, marking a substantial victory for advocates who have long campaigned for more inclusive technology.
Misokinesia, a condition where repetitive movements trigger discomfort or distress, often includes reactions to on-screen elements like blinking cursors. Similarly, those with vestibular disorders can experience dizziness or disorientation from such visual stimuli. The new feature in iOS 18 addresses these concerns by providing an option to turn off the blinking cursor, allowing users a more comfortable digital interaction.
The journey to this development has been driven by persistent advocacy efforts. Notably, platforms like Misophonia International and our sister-site Sensory Diversity have been instrumental in raising awareness and pushing for change. Their petitions—such as “Reduced Motion Is Not Enough: We Need No Motion“—highlighted the necessity of offering no-motion alternatives beyond existing reduced motion settings. These initiatives urged major companies to consider the diverse needs of neurodivergent individuals when designing their software.
Additionally, Sensory Diversity’s article on “Blinking Text Cursor Caret” delves into how such seemingly minor features can significantly impact user comfort and accessibility.
The following iPhones are compatible with iOS 18: https://www.tomsguide.com/phones/iphones/ios-18-supported-devices-here-are-all-the-compatible-iphones
